The music of Za! And La TransMegaCobla is almost impossible to describe. They label themselves as ‘post-world music’, which their extravagant melodies that take influence from everything from Spanish to Indian music seem to support. However, their frequent explosions into gritty metal riffs and bursts of relentless free jazz add a whole new dimension to an already chaotic sound. The eight-minute centrepiece of their new self-titled album, ‘La Gnaoua de Yishma Qala!’, is a summation of everything the band can do, as it wanders effortlessly from its bluesy guitar-led introduction, into a passionate call-and-response hook and through an extended section of wailing, sax-led improvisation. When the vocals return, we’re treated to a Magma-esque carnival of sound - it makes sense that this track went down a storm in front of those lucky enough to catch the band tucked away and clashing with Little Simz at Primavera Sound 2023. Za! have been active in and around Spain as an experimental musical duo for a number of years, but have only recently teamed up with vocalists Tarta Ralena and brass band La MegaCobla to forge their latest musical direction. Their self-titled album is out now, and it’s an absolute treat. -Dan Peeke.